USS Barry (DD-933): History Of The Destroyer
What defines a legacy of service and resilience, etched in the annals of naval history? The USS Barry (DD-933), a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who served and the vessels that carried them through turbulent waters, her story intertwined with the dedication of individuals and the echoes of conflict.
Commissioned in 1954, the USS Barry embarked on a career that spanned decades and oceans. Her service took her through the Caribbean, the Atlantic, and the Mediterranean, a testament to the broad scope of her duties. She also answered the call of duty in the Vietnam War, earning two battle stars for her valiant efforts. This illustrious destroyer was laid down on March 15, 1954, at Bath Iron Works Corporation in Bath, Maine. Launched on October 1, 1955, and commissioned on September 7, 1956, the ship was a marvel of its time, designed to project power and protect interests across the globe. The third vessel to bear the name, the USS Barry carried the weight of history and the hopes of the future on her steel shoulders.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | USS Barry (DD-933) |
| Class | Forrest Sherman-class Destroyer |
| Laid Down | March 15, 1954, Bath, Maine |
| Launched | October 1, 1955 |
| Commissioned | September 7, 1956, Boston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, Mass. |
| First Commanding Officer | Commander Isaac Campbell Kidd, Jr. |
| Original Armament | Three 5"/54 caliber DP guns, two dual 3" guns (specification may vary) |
| Beam | 418 feet 5 inches |
| Beam | 19 feet 6 inches |
| Crew | Approximately 33 knots (38mph) |
| Fuel Capacity | 665 tons of fuel oil |
| Range | 4,500 nautical miles |
| Service History | Caribbean, Atlantic, Mediterranean, Vietnam War (two battle stars), Pacific |
| Decommissioned | 1982 (approximate, based on available information) |
| Final Disposition | Recycled by International Shipbreaking Limited, LLC, Brownsville, Texas |
| Reference | NavSource Online: Destroyer Photo Archive - DD-933 Barry |
The story of the USS Barry is inextricably linked to the naval legacy of the namesake, Commodore John Barry. Born in County Wexford, Ireland, in 1745, John Barry was appointed a captain in the Continental Navy on December 7, 1775. His contributions during the American Revolutionary War were substantial, solidifying his place in history as a pioneering figure in the U.S. Navy. The decision to name a destroyer after him was a fitting tribute to his dedication and service.
Commander Isaac Campbell Kidd, Jr., the first commanding officer of the USS Barry, also carried a significant legacy. His father, Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, was tragically killed on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. The younger Kidd's command of the USS Barry was a poignant echo of his familys commitment to naval service and a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity. After a brief underway period in Narragansett, the ship was ready to begin its long and impactful service.
During her active years from 1956 to 1982, the USS Barry navigated the waters of the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Pacific, participating in a range of operations and exercises. Her service wasn't without its share of incidents. There was, for instance, an accidental discharge of a torpedo into the deck house of the USS Decatur (DD 936) while moored alongside in Newport, Rhode Island. Fortunately, no injuries or significant damage occurred. She was also a frequent visitor to foreign ports, conducting goodwill visits and demonstrating American presence and influence.
The ship's design and capabilities reflected the naval technology of the era. The Forrest Sherman-class destroyers were known for their speed and firepower, armed with a formidable array of guns and torpedoes. The USS Barry, with her three 5"/54 caliber dual-purpose guns and other armaments, was a versatile platform, capable of engaging both surface and air threats. Her fuel capacity allowed for extensive voyages, and her crew worked tirelessly to maintain the ship and ensure its readiness.
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The launch of the USS Barry, on October 1, 1955, was a significant event, marked by the traditional sponsorship. Francis Rogers, a great grandniece of Commodore John Barry, had the honor of christening the vessel. The commissioning ceremony at the Boston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, Massachusetts, on September 7, 1956, marked the official entry of the ship into active service.
The USS Barry's story is not only about its hardware, specifications, and deployments, but it is also very much about the people who crewed her. Sailors lived and worked on the Barry, forging bonds and sharing experiences that would last a lifetime. The ship became a second home, and the crew, a band of brothers and sisters. The legacy of the USS Barry is a testament to their collective efforts, dedication, and the sacrifices they made in service to their country. Many of these shipmates have kept in touch through platforms such as Hullnumber.com, a place to connect, share memories, and keep the spirit of the Barry alive.
Another crucial event that shaped her history and service record was the Cuban Missile Crisis. During this tense period, the USS Barry, like many other naval vessels, played a vital role in monitoring the situation and maintaining a presence in the area. This period highlighted the importance of naval readiness and the crucial role the ship played in maintaining stability.
In her final years, the USS Barry eventually met her end, making her final journey to Brownsville, Texas, where she was recycled by International Shipbreaking Limited, LLC. The process of dismantling the vessel was a final chapter in the story of this remarkable ship. But her legacy endures, and her story provides a glimpse into a time of Cold War tensions, naval power, and the dedication of those who served at sea.
The USS Barry's service career illustrates the evolution of naval strategy and technology. Her participation in the Vietnam War, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and various exercises demonstrates the versatility and importance of a modern destroyer. The vessel served as a floating embassy, a projection of American power, and a symbol of freedom. The ship's life represents the broader history of the US Navy and its commitment to protecting interests around the globe.
From her launch in Bath, Maine, in 1955 to her final days, the USS Barry served with distinction. The destroyers tale underscores the significance of those who served, the technological advancements that shaped naval warfare, and the enduring spirit of naval tradition. The USS Barry, a vessel that answered the call of duty in war and peace, will forever be remembered in the annals of maritime history.
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